Embarking on a journey into the world of MJ the Musical, Matthew Frederick Harris sat down with us to share the magnetic pull he felt towards the roles of Tito Jackson and Quincy Jones. Harris opens up about infusing his unique interpretation and style into these iconic characters, emphasizing that he aimed to embody the essence of Tito and Quincy rather than delivering mere impersonations. His approach reflects a commitment to authentically portray these legends while injecting his own passion and joy into the characters, breathing life into their stories. Amidst the exhilaration of performing in this production, Harris candidly shares memorable moments and the impact of Michael Jackson’s profound legacy.
This Broadway journey has not only solidified his position as a leading man but has also equipped him with the skills to navigate the demanding world of live theater.As Matthew Frederick Harris continues to tread the boards of Broadway, his experiences with MJ the Musical stand as a testament to the transformative power of art and the enduring magic of live theater.
What drew you to the roles of Tito Jackson and Quincy Jones in MJ the Musical?
Matthew Frederick Harris: When I was first auditioning for MJ the Musical, I was being seen for a couple things, but I remember hearing the song “Keep the Faith” that Quincy sings in the show, which I was preparing to sing in the room with casting and immediately I felt in my heart such a connection to not only that song but the character. What’s funny was my first self-tape was not for those characters, but the moment I heard and read the material for it I knew it was for me!
How do you bring your own unique interpretation and style to these iconic characters?
Matthew Frederick Harris: I did a deep dive of both Quincy Jones and Tito and seeing the icons both of these men were in their own ways I couldn’t wait to take on such a beautiful task to tell their story!
For me, as I began rehearsing and figuring out these characters, I wasn’t stuck on trying to make an impersonation of these guys. It would be different if this was Quincy Jones The Musical haha, but the main focus was to be in the world of who they were while bringing my own passion and joy to these characters to make them come alive.
Can you share any memorable moments or challenges you’ve faced while performing in this production?How do you prepare yourself mentally and physically for each performance?
Matthew Frederick Harris: Omg yes! I have so many memories haha! I’ll never forget though my second show in I rolled my ankle wearing the pink platform heels as one of the Jackson 5. Took about a good week to be able to be back in the show, but it was that moment that taught me I can’t treat the output of this show lightly. This show is AMAZING but definitely is an uphill climb. You are constantly moving in this show, and physical health is very important if you want to keep up with it. Everyday I have to stretch my body to make sure I’m in working order before stepping on that stage. I have to eat differently, and prepare mentally for each show, to make sure I’m present and aware of everything. There’s so many moving parts and one mess up in the wrong place could cause an injury to yourself or one of your castmates! I thankfully have found my rhythm and enjoy doing the 8 shows a week although not an easy task!
What have you learned about the life and legacy of Michael Jackson through your portrayal of Tito Jackson and Quincy Jones?
Matthew Frederick Harris: I grew up listening to Michael Jackson, but I will say I never understood the depth and reach of his being until being in this show. Hearing his story 8 times a week, really showed me just how special Michael Jackson was. I watched a Quincy documentary and was so inspired as well because I didn’t realize he played such a vital role in his career. Without a Quincy, it’s almost safe to say there may not have been the Michael Jackson we know today! It shows you the power of the right people in your life to pull what’s in you for you to walk in your total greatness! Both his brother Tito, and Quincy did that in their own ways!
What feedback or reactions from the audience have stood out to you the most during your time with MJ the Musical?
Matthew Frederick Harris: We LOVE a live audience!! When the audience is leaned in and you hear the roar of the crowd, it gives us the energy each night to push for our absolute best! Not that we don’t without it, but that energy is tangible! My last show was a polar opposite of this show on Broadway so hearing the audience like this 8 shows a week really blew my mind especially when I first started!
In what ways has being part of this Broadway production enhanced your own artistic growth and development?
Matthew Frederick Harris: OMG! This show has grown me so much. Not only do I play Quincy Jones and Tito Jackson, but I also get to cover Rob/Joe Jackson who is one of the lead actors besides Michael. He carries so much of the show and getting to do that, and also play the two characters back and forth really challenged me as an actor. I had to learn how to find the passion and engine for one character and then show a completely different character in a matter of seconds while making it believable to the audience. Beyond that this show has taught me how to be a comfortable mover on Broadway 8 shows a week which I wasn’t fully sure I could before that!
It has shown me that I can be a leading man on Broadway and carry a show 8 times a week. I always enjoy the steps of the journey to where you want to be. Every season prepares you for what’s next, and I’m so thankful God allowed me to be here to learn and be prepared for whatever is next in the future.
What aspects of working in a live theater environment do you find most rewarding as an actor?
Matthew Frederick Harris: Getting to hear the audience’s hearts and reactions and how moved they were after a show will never get old! We work SO hard and to hear that it really moved and blessed people gives us strength to keep pushing on.
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